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Use exponents to write repeated multiplication

Repeated multiplication of the same whole-number factor is represented compactly in exponential notation: the repeated factor is the base, and the number of factors is the nonnegative integer exponent (for example, 4×4×4=434 \times 4 \times 4=4^3). This includes interpreting and translating between expanded and exponential forms, while distinguishing 434^3 from 4×34 \times 3; negative, fractional, and variable exponents, as well as exponent laws, are beyond this scope.

Detailed Explanation: Use exponents to write repeated multiplication

When the same whole number is multiplied by itself, use exponential notation:

  • The repeated number is the base.
  • The number of times it appears is the exponent.

For example, write (7×7×7×7)(7 \times 7 \times 7 \times 7) in exponential notation.

  1. Find the repeated factor: it is 77. So, 77 is the base.
  2. Count the factors: there are 44 sevens. So, 44 is the exponent.
  3. Write the base and exponent:
7×7×7×7=747 \times 7 \times 7 \times 7 = 7^4

The expression (74)(7^4) means 77 is used as a factor 44 times. It does not mean (7×4)(7 \times 4).

Learn by doing: Use exponents to write repeated multiplication

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Exponents - Expanded Form


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